Tehran's move could ignite the world: Why is the Strait of Hormuz the key to everything?

An advisor to the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) stated that Iranian forces will target any ships attempting to cross the strait, as well as “enemy” oil pipelines, and that they will not allow oil exports from the region.

“The Strait of Hormuz is closed, and we will strike any ship attempting to pass through,” he said.

The Secret of the Strait of Hormuz

Controlled by Iran, the Strait of Hormuz is the world’s most important route for transporting oil. This waterway, connecting the largest oil producers in the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, carries about one-fifth of the world’s total oil trade.

The significance of this narrow maritime passage extends far beyond the region. Every day, dozens of tankers pass through it, supplying markets in Asia, Europe, and other parts of the world with crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Because of this, any threat to close it immediately shakes global energy markets.

A complete or prolonged blockade could lead to a sharp spike in oil and fuel prices, disruptions in supply, and increased shipping and insurance costs. Analysts warn that such a scenario would have a domino effect on the global economy, including rising inflation and additional pressure on already unstable markets.

That is precisely why the Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the key points of global energy security, and any escalation in the area is monitored closely around the world.

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